The BJP government in Delhi has directed government schools to identify students who have failed Class 9 more than once and provide counselling to them and their parents. The move is part of the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) Project and aims to ensure that students do not drop out of the education system altogether.
According to a recent circular issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE), school heads have been asked to prepare a list of students who have failed Class 9 two or three times. These students, along with their parents, are to be invited to the school for counselling in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
Delhi Schools To Counsel Class IX Repeaters, Offer NIOS Path To Prevent Dropoutshttps://t.co/QGsDvEWgSO
— ABP LIVE (@abplive) June 10, 2026
Focus on counselling and motivation
The circular stresses that many students discontinue their education due to a lack of motivation, guidance and confidence. To address this issue, schools have been instructed to counsel both students and parents about the importance of completing school education and the long-term benefits it can provide.
“The heads must personally invite these students and their parents to the school at a convenient time, ensuring a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The core of the directive is to provide thorough counselling to both students and parents, emphasising the importance of completing school education and the long-term benefits it brings,” the circular stated.
School authorities have first been asked to encourage students to continue their studies through the regular school system. Officials believe that proper guidance at this stage can help prevent many students from leaving education permanently.
NIOS offered as an alternative pathway
However, if students or parents are not willing to continue with regular schooling and wish to obtain a School Leaving Certificate (SLC), schools have been directed to introduce them to the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) Project.
The circular explains that NIOS allows students to directly enrol in Class 10, choose subjects according to their strengths and study at their own pace. This flexibility can help students continue their education without losing an academic year.
“If students still do not want to continue with schooling, then he/she should be convinced to take immediate admission in Class 10 in NIOS. Through the NIOS, the students can directly enrol in Class X, choose subjects according to their strengths, including lighter subjects if desired and study at their own pace, thus saving a year and reducing academic pressure,” the circular said.
Students can return to mainstream education
The Directorate of Education has also clarified that students who complete their studies through the NIOS route will not be cut off from mainstream education. Those who pass Class 10 through the NIOS Project will remain eligible for admission to Class 11 in government schools.
Officials said schools will continue supporting students and parents throughout the process. The counselling sessions are intended not only to guide students but also to reassure parents that alternative learning pathways can help their children continue their education and build a better future.
